Makgeolli Making Workshop
2023-01-28 13:00 - 15:00 (America/Denver) | Korean Center, Inc, 1362 Post Street, San Francisco
Learn the art of making “makgeolli,” the traditional Korean rice wine that’s been making a huge comeback in Korea and gaining popularity in the U.S. Not only will you learn how to make your own makgeolli, but you’ll also get to enjoy snacking on a variety of anju (dishes consumed while drinking Korean alcohol) prepared by popular local K-food chef and ambassador, Sarah Kim-Lee (check out her Instagram @sarahkim_lee).
About the Instructor
Matthew Hable started making makgeolli when he moved to South Korea in 2018. After briefly learning the basics, he took an advanced makgeolli brewing course in Seoul for six months. When he completed the course in 2019, Matthew continued brewing and spent the next three years traveling around Korea, observing the art of making makgeolli from a diverse group of brewers. Today he is currently based in San Francisco. Matthew will teach you the basics of making makgeolli, and participants will get to bring their brews home after the workshop.

Seollal (Korean Lunar New Year) Celebration
2023-02-11 11:00 - 13:00 (America/Denver) | Korean Center, Inc, 1362 Post Street, San Francisco
Join us in celebrating Seollal, or Korean Lunar New Year, with our new year celebration event! You’ll be able to participate in traditional Seollal activities and learn more about traditional customs of this important holiday.

Event:
1. Tteokguk (Rice Cake Soup) Workshop with Sarah Kim-Lee
On Seollal, it is customary to eat tteokguk to celebrate as it represents a clean, fresh start to the new year. We will have a cooking workshop of tteokguk with local K-food chef and ambassador Sarah Kim-Lee. Participants will be given a demonstration of how tteokguk is made. Participants will also learn how to plate the dish and be able to enjoy the dish afterwards!
2. Experience Seollal Customs
Experience traditional Seollal customs by trying on hanboks, the traditional Korean clothing, playing traditional Korean games, and more!
Please note: If you are interested in trying on the hanboks and participating in the workshop with the hanbok on, please arrive at 10:30AM.

Come and experience a traditional Korean New Year with us!

Children's Minhwa Exhibit
2023-05-02 08:00 - 2023-06-16 17:00 (America/Denver) | Korean Center, Inc, 1362 Post Street, San Francisco
KCI is holding an exhibition this month at our center to showcase the talent and creativity of the students who participated in the International Children’s Minhwa Contest and won an award. The gallery is opened by appointment only. Please email info@koreancentersf.org to schedule an appointment.

2023 King Sejong Institute Korean Speaking/Writing Contest
2023-06-16 18:00 (America/Denver) | Korean Center, Inc, 1362 Post Street, San Francisco
Test your Korean skills with this year’s speaking/writing contest!
Participants will have the chance to demonstrate their abilities in both written and spoken Korean. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced learner, this contest is a great way to test your language skills and learn from your peers. The winner will have a chance to win a trip to Korea, all expense paid! All participants will also have the chance to win a $50 gift card to Dokkaebier!
Join us and take part in this exciting competition!

A.Kim Short Film Screening and Q&A with Director Yulia Khvan
2023-06-24 15:00 - 16:00 (America/Denver) | Korean Center, Inc, 1362 Post Street, San Francisco
The Korean Center, Inc presents the screening of “A. KIM“. The screening is followed by a Q&A with the director, Yulia Khvan.
Tickets are $10 if purchased in advanced and $15 at the door. Snacks and beverages will be provided.

‘Koryo-saram’ is the name given to the Korean diaspora that lived (and still live) in the former Soviet Union. ‘Koryo’ is the name the historical dynasty that ruled over the Korean peninsula, and ‘Saram’ means ‘people’. Hence, ‘Koryo-Saram’ literally translates to ‘Korean people’.
This short film sheds light on the little known history of koryo-saram, who have faced political persecution and endured significant hardships. Inspired by Khvan’s own experiences as a koryo-saram, this film also explores the inter-generational journey of self-discovery within the koryo-saram community while addressing the tension between family responsibility and self-fulfillment.
SYNOPSIS:
A.Kim is a koryo-saram, who lives in Tashkent (former Soviet Union). All seems well: he is modest, introspective, and excels at doing chores. Most would describe A.Kim as a good citizen. One day, a friend gifts A.Kim with an unexpected souvenir. It changes unspoken things. Among those, a perspective of what he is to himself. The life that surrounds takes on a new meaning.
ABOUT THE DIRECTOR:
Yulia Khvan is a member of a koryo-saram community in Uzbekistan and part of the LGBTQ+ community. She was born in Tashkent and studied international law in Sweden prior to becoming a filmmaker. Her works include: ‘Vito’ 2021 (short film, official selection at 16th Manuel Trujillo Durán International Short Film Festival, Yale Hollywood Festival 2021), production work in Argentine documentary ‘Terminal Norte’ 2021 (by Lucrecia Martel), and Emmy-nominated mockumentary series ‘Polypeople’ 2020 USA (by Thales Correa).

San Francisco Beginnings of Korean Immigration 1902-1920 Exhibit
2023-07-05 - 2023-09-05 | Korean Center, Inc, 1362 Post Street, San Francisco
Korean immigrants have made significant contributions to American life, bringing their unique food and culture and talents and melding them into the mainstream. And Korean Americans have grown to be the fifth largest Asian American group in the US. When and how did Korean immigration begin?
This exhibit explores the lesser-known history of the first Korean community that started here in the Bay Area. In the early 1900s, as Japan rose to power and occupied Korea, about 3,000 Koreans left their motherland and arrived in San Francisco. Each of them came to the US for different reasons. All of them were fleeing from life under the Japanese. San Francisco Beginnings offers a rare glimpse into the lives of these Korean pioneers, the community they formed and their lasting contributions.
The exhibit is free and open to the public. You can see this exhibit on display at the Korean Center during our open hours (Mon-Fri from 10AM – 4PM).

K-Food Cooking Series
2023-07-08 - 2023-07-22 | Korean Center, Inc, 1362 Post Street, San Francisco
We’re bringing back our Korean cooking workshops in the month of July with the talented chef Ashley Hwang. Last year, Ashey visited KCI all the way from Korea to teach us how to make kimchi. This year, she’ll be back again to show us how to create other mouthwatering Korean dishes.
There will be six total workshops in this series, each priced at $90. Each day will follow a different theme, showcasing various dishes. Participants who attend the workshops for all three days will receive a certificate upon completion. Note: Participants only need to attend one session each day, for all three days, to receive the certificate. Participants will also have the chance to sign up for a FREE tasting event to wrap up the series.

WORKSHOP DATES:
*Each day has two time slots available. The morning workshop will run from 10AM-1PM while the afternoon workshop will run from 4PM-7PM.
7/8: K-Drama Dishes – Kimbap & Tteokbokki: Learn how to make dishes commonly featured in your favorite K-dramas! Discover the art of making delicious Kimbap (Korean rice rolls) filled with a variety of ingredients, including vegetables, meat, and seafood and learn how to prepare Tteokbokki, a popular Korean street food dish made with rice cakes cooked in a spicy sauce.
7/15: Explore Korea – Jeonju Bibimbap & Busan Seafood Pancake: These workshops will focus on a dish that’s unique to a region of Korea. Explore the flavors of Jeonju with the signature dish, Bibimbap, featuring an assortment of vegetables, meat, and a savory sauce served over rice. Dive into the cuisine of Busan with this seafood pancake, packed with fresh seafood and crispy vegetables.
7/22: Special Dishes for Hot Summer Days – Samgyetang & Cucumber Sobagi: In Korea, there are a few special days (특별한날) that is celebrated by eating certain dishes. On the hottest day of the year, you would eat hot foods like samgyetang. Learn this traditional Korean chicken soup, Samgyetang, believed to restore vitality and provide nourishment and discover the refreshing flavors of Cucumber Sobagi, or cucumber kimchi, a popular side dish in Korean cuisine.
Each workshop will provide hands-on instruction from chef Ashley Hwang, allowing participants to learn the techniques of Korean cooking. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to expand your culinary skills and explore the flavors of Korea!

ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR:
Ashley Jeong-a Hwang (Cooking Instructor / Director of Tasty K)
• Director / Cooking Instructor of Tasty K : 2018 Prospective Tourism Business Ventures (KTO)
• M.A. in Korea traditional culinary culture, Sookmyung women’s Univ.
• Licensed tourist guide (English), Tour conductor, Temple food instructor
• Master Thesis: Survey and examination of culinary tourism attributes in foreigners according to activity type (2013)
From browsing her local market to roaming the world to eat at old, historical restaurants, she is a true ‘foodie’ at heart. A Seoul native and mother of two, she is passionate about sharing her extensive academic and professional experience in the Korean culinary arts with her students.

Teen Summit
2023-08-26 09:30 - 17:30 (America/Denver) | Korean Center, Inc, 1362 Post Street, San Francisco
The Teen Summit Program, hosted by the Korean Center and sponsored by the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea, is designed to empower and develop young leaders in the Korean community. This one day program aims to provide students from grades 8-12 with opportunities to enhance their leadership skills and foster personal growth. Through a combination of hands-on workshops, engaging lectures, and discussions, the program equips students with the knowledge and tools needed to be an effective leader. This program also covers Korean American history and culture. Once the program is completed, participants will receive a certificate from KCI and the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea.

Cooking with Crayons
2023-09-12 - 2023-12-09 | Korean Center, Inc, 1362 Post Street, San Francisco
Stop by the Korean Center and see our newest exhibit, Cooking with Crayons by artist Hana Jeong. Hana grew up in a rural Southwestern island in South Korea. As she moved to the US, facing language barriers, culture shock and loneliness, she found comfort by cooking Korean food for her friends. Cooking with Crayons, Hana’s inaugural collection uses crayons to express the profound love and connection she feels towards food. It is a testament to its unifying power, transcending language barriers and fostering warmth. Learn more about the collection HERE.
The exhibit is free and open to the public. You can see this exhibit on display at the Korean Center during our open hours (Mon-Fri from 10AM – 4PM).

5th Annual Bay Area Chuseok Festival
2023-09-30 11:00 - 17:00 (America/Denver) | Main Parade Lawn, Presidio, Montgomery St, San Francisco, CA, 94129, United States
The Korean Center is excited to announce the return of the 5th Annual Bay Area Chuseok Festival, hosted at the Presidio on September 30, 2023. Our annual festival is the Bay Area’s largest public event showcasing Korean culture, cuisine, music, arts, and community. Join us in celebrating this important Korean harvest holiday with delicious Korean food (both traditional and fusion), exciting live performances from Korean cultural performance groups, traditional Korean games and activities, and more!

Bojagi Workshop
2024-01-27 14:00 - 15:30 (America/Denver) | Korean Center, Inc, 1362 Post Street, San Francisco
For centuries, bojagi, the traditional Korean wrapping cloth, has held a significant place in Korean culture. Functionally versatile and beautiful, this essential item was used to wrap and carry everything from gifts to precious religious objects to clothing pieces and everyday household items. They are also used to cover food from ritual offerings, dining tables, and trays. Bojagi is still used today to wrap special gifts for family members on important holidays such as Seollal or Chuseok.
Led by Judy Kim, founder of Bojagi Home Decor, this hands-on workshop will introduce participants to Bojagi-wrapping techniques.
*Materials will be provided but you are welcome to bring your own object to learn how to wrap.
*Ages 6+

Seollal Celebration + Traditional Talchum/Pansori Performance
2024-02-09 18:00 - 19:30 (America/Denver) | Korean Center, Inc, 1362 Post Street, San Francisco
Join us in celebrating Seollal, or Korea’s Lunar New Year, with our new year celebration event! You’ll be able to participate in traditional Seollal activities (including trying on a hanbok and eating delicious Korean food) and learn more about traditional customs of this important holiday.
Watch a special performance that blends the ancient artistry of Talchum and the soul-stirring rhythms of Pansori . Our sensational professionals have flown in from Korea to perform. You’ll even have the opportunity to learn some moves from them!
You won’t want to miss out! Come and experience a Korean New Year with us!
About Talchum and Pansori:
Talchum is a traditional Korean mask dance drama that has been passed down through generations. It involves performers wearing colorful masks, vibrant costumes, and engaging in theatrical dance movements. Pansori is a traditional form of folk music performed by a vocalist and a drummer. Performances revolve around storytelling, often adapting classical Korean literature or folklore. This popular tradition is characterized by expressive singing and stylized speech, and and has been designated as Korea’s National Intangible Cultural Heritage No. 5.

Get Tickets HERE

Family Minhwa Workshop
2024-04-27 14:00 - 16:00 (America/Denver) | Korean Center, Inc, 1362 Post Street, San Francisco
Korean Traditional Folk Art, Minhwa, is a type of painting that became popular during the Joseon era. It was painted by unknown artisans, who used symbolism to express their feelings of happiness, anger, and love in everyday life. They are typically used to decorate palaces and homes and to celebrate joyful family occasions.
Minhwa artist Kiyoung Nam will lead this family friendly workshop where participants will have the opportunity to learn more about traditional Minhwa, and paint their own artwork. Once finished, participants will have their own Minhwa work to decorate their homes with!
Families are encouraged to attend. This workshop is open to children ages 8+.

Get Tickets HERE

Children's Day Celebration
2024-05-05 13:00 - 15:00 (America/Denver) | Korean Center, Inc, 1362 Post Street, San Francisco
Join us for a fun-filled celebration of Children’s Day at KCI! In Korea, Children’s Day is a special public holiday dedicated to celebrating the joy of childhood. This year, we invite you to join us for a day of exciting activities and cultural experiences.
From traditional Korean games to hands-on craft sessions, there’s something for child to enjoy. Participate in traditional Korean games like jegichagi, ddakji, shoe toss, and lots more!
In addition to the games, don’t miss the chance for your children to unleash their creativity at our chopstick-making section. Led by Chopstick Story, kids can craft their very own pairs of chopsticks, personalized and unique to their taste. It’s a wonderful opportunity for children to learn about traditional Korean craftsmanship while creating a memorable keepsake.
This event will be limited to children ages 9-14.
Ticket Fee: $40
Get tickets HERE.

Teen Summit 2024
2024-06-08 09:30 - 15:30 (America/Denver)
The Teen Summit Program, hosted by the Korean Center and sponsored by the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea, is designed to empower and develop young leaders in the Korean community. This one day program aims to provide students from grades 8-12 with opportunities to enhance their leadership skills and foster personal growth. Through a combination of hands-on workshops, engaging lectures, and discussions, the program equips students with the knowledge and tools needed to be an effective leader. Once the program is completed, participants will receive a certificate from KCI.
See our Teen Summit 2024 page for more information on guest speakers.

Flower Arrangement Workshop
2024-07-27 14:00 - 16:00 (America/Denver) | Korean Center, Inc, 1362 Post Street, San Francisco
Learn how to create stunning bouquets and centerpieces with fresh flowers. You will be learning from professional instructors: Kim Hea-sook, the bronze medal winner at the Korean Flower Arranging Contest, and Ryu Bok-hee, recipient of the President’s Award at the Korean Flower Arranging Contest. Both are visiting professors from South Korea and bring decades of experience and expertise in floral design.
Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, this workshop is perfect for anyone looking to unleash their inner florist. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to get hands-on experience and take home your beautiful creations!
Participants should bring a flower pot for the workshop. The container should have a diameter of approximarelt 20~25cm and a height of 10~15cm. Limited pots will also be available for purchase onsite.
About the Instructor:
Kim Hea–sook has taught at university and has 50 years of experience in flower arranging. She is a sought after instructor/designer to many within the international community and throughout South Korea. She has authored books, won the bronze metal at the Korean Flower Arranging contest this year, and has received numerous awards. Her works have been featured in many exhibitions and events.
Ryu Bok-hee is a university professor with 50 years of experience in flower arranging and won the President’s Award at the Korean Flower arranging contest last year. Bok-hee is a renowned Korean floral designer known for her stunning and intricate floral arrangements.

6th Annual Bay Area Chuseok Festival
2024-09-14 11:00 - 16:00 (America/Denver)
Our annual Bay Area Chuseok Festival is back on Sept. 14, 2024 at the Main Parade Lawn, Presidio. Stay tuned for more information. Follow us @sfchuseok for more updates.

Hangul Day Celebration
2024-10-11 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Denver)
Date, Time, Location TBD. More information coming soon!

Kimchi Workshop
2024-11-09 10:00 - 12:00 (America/Denver)
Make your own KIMCHI in this cooking workshop with the Korean Center. Limited spots available!
When: November 9th, 2024, Saturday, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location:1362 Post St, San Francisco, CA 94109

Fall 2024 Teen Summit
2024-11-24 10:00 - 14:00 (America/Denver) | Asian Art Museum, 200 Larkin St, San Francisco, CA, United States

Hallyu Holiday Bojagi Gift-Wrapping Workshop
2024-12-15 14:00 - 16:00 (America/Denver) | Korean Center, Inc, 1362 Post Street, San Francisco
Bojagi, the ancient Korean art of wrapping in cloth, combines intricate folds and beautiful textiles to transform a simple gift into a heartfelt expression of care.
Led by Judy Kim, founder of Bojagi Home, this hands-on workshop will teach you various traditional Korean wrapping techniques, making each wrapped gift a unique Korean cultural experience.
As a special takeaway, participants will receive a one-of-a-kind, handmade bojagi cloth in the iconic saekdong (rainbow) pattern from Bojagi Home’s exclusive Hallyu Holiday Capsule Collection. This unique, reusable cloth is perfect for adding a festive Korean touch to your gifts! Plus, enjoy a gift box filled with your favorite Korean snacks to savor or share.
Meet the Instructor:
Judy Kim, fashion designer and Korean food & culture storyteller, founded Bojagi Home Decor in 2023 after working in the fashion industry for over 20 years. She saw firsthand the negative impact of the fashion industry on the environment and wanted to create a mindful brand uniting her design experience and honoring her Korean heritage. Judy is on a mission to modernize the sustainable Korean art of bojagi to the world, using zero waste and reuse methods to create beautiful and purposeful gifts and home décor. Her handmade products are crafted in San Francisco.

2025 Seollal Celebration
2025-01-25 11:00 - 14:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Korean Center, Inc, 1362 Post Street, San Francisco
Celebrate Seollal, the Korean Lunar New Year, with a fun-filled, family-friendly event! Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Korea through interactive activities and cultural experiences:

Learn and Participate: Discover the significance of Seollal with a special introduction and demonstration of the traditional bowing ceremony, “Saebae.” Parents can present well-wishing gifts (Yongdon) to children.
Get Creative: Enjoy hands-on Arts & Crafts and create your own traditional Korean crafts.
Play & Have Fun: Learn how to play “Yutnori,” Korea’s traditional New Year board game, in a lively group setting.
Savor the Flavors of Korea: Enjoy a delicious meal featuring “Mandu” (Korean dumplings) prepared just for you.
Connect & Share: Meet new friends, celebrate Korean culture, and take home unforgettable memories!

Whether you’re new to Korean traditions or want to share them with family and friends, this event offers something for everyone. Don’t miss this opportunity to kick off the Lunar New Year with joy and cultural discovery!
Reserve your spot today. Let’s welcome the New Year together!

Spring Vegan Kimchi Workshop
2025-04-19 11:00 - 13:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Volcano Kimchi, 1074 Illinois St, San Francisco, CA, United States
Spring Vegan Kimchi WorkshopJoin us for a fun, hands-on workshop where you’ll learn to make Bomdong Geotjeori (Spring Kimchi) with seasonal fruit—a light, fresh, and vegan twist on the classic Korean dish. Limited spots available, so be sure to reserve your spot today!

Children's Day & AAPI Month Celebration
2025-05-03 11:00 - 16:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | The Crossing, 250 Main Street, San Francisco, 94105, United States
FREE RSVP HERE
Children’s Day & AAPI Month CelebrationSaturday, May 3, 2025 | 11 AM – 4 PMThe Crossing at The East Cut, San Francisco

Join Korean Center, Inc. and The East Cut for a special celebration of Children’s Day and Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month!
This free, family-friendly outdoor festival honors the rich traditions of AAPI cultures through engaging activities, performances, and community outreach. Enjoy traditional Korean games like ddakji and yutnori, cultural crafts, storytime with the SF Public Library, and a K-pop dance tutorial with The Ruby Slippers. Try on traditional Korean outfits, take part in a fun scavenger hunt, and explore booths from local AAPI organizations and small businesses.
We’re also proud to welcome participation from city agencies and AAPI youth-focused nonprofits offering resources and outreach.
Whether you’re coming with family, friends, or flying solo, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Come celebrate with us!
🌸 Free and open to the public🎉 Interactive activities, live performances, crafts, and more🌟 Support local AAPI organizations and vendors
Contact hyunjikim@koreancentersf.org for any inquiries.
FREE RSVP HERE

Yeongdong Meets San Francisco
2025-08-07 15:30 - 17:00 (America/Denver) | Korean Center, Inc, 1362 Post Street, San Francisco
Yeongdong Meets San Francisco – A Cross-Cultural Teen Exchange🤝
Thursday, August 7, 2025 | 3:30 PM – 5 PMKorean Center, Inc. (1362 Post st., SF)
Limited capacity – invitation only! [FREE RSVP HERE]

Middle school students from Yeongdong, Korea, are coming to San Francisco, and we’re inviting teens (ages 12–17) to join this special cultural exchange!
🎵 Enjoy traditional Korean music
🎨 Try hands-on crafts
🎽 Experience Gyobok(Korean school uniforms)
📸 Connect with peers from Korea and build new friendships!
📩 RSVP now to join this unforgettable afternoon! FREE RSVP HERE

Teen Summit Fall 2025
2025-11-15 12:00 - 17:00 (America/Denver) | Asian Art Museum, 200 Larkin St, San Francisco, CA, United States
Teen Summit Fall: Navigating Challenges through Arts
Saturday, November 15, 2025 | 12 PM – 4 PMAsian Art Museum (Samsung Hall), San Francisco
Event Details: https://koreancentersf.org/teen-fall–2025/
🥬 Kimchi-Making + Lunch with chef JiYoung Park (Park’s Kitchen)
🎨 Self-Sculpture Workshop with artist Jun Yang
🌟 Rising Creators Spotlight: Live Demos & Stories
🖼️ Explore the Asian Art Museum galleries all day
The Teen Summit is an annual leadership and creative development program presented by Korean Center, Inc. (KCI) in partnership with the Asian Art Museum. It brings together teens from across the Bay Area to connect with peers, discover creative pathways, and gain inspiration from mentors, artists, and community leaders. Through hands-on workshops and honest conversations, participants explore identity, resilience, and the power of art to express who they are.
No prep needed. Just show up and enjoy!

Kimchi and Culture: A Korean Culinary Experience
2025-12-04 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Denver) | KQED, 2601 Mariposa Street, San Francisco
Kimchi and Culture: A Korean Culinary Experience

Thursday, December 4, 2025 | 7 PM (Door opens at 6 PM)KQED 2601 Mariposa Street, San Francisco,
Event Details: https://www.kqed.org/event/5683

Celebrate Korea’s most iconic culinary staple with an energetic, sensory-rich experience that brings together culture, cuisine, and creativity.
In partnership with the KQED, the program will include a live step-by-step demonstration by Chef JiYoung Park from Park Kitchen, where attendees will learn the process of making kimchi.

Korean Futures Lab — Summer 2026
2026-06-20 10:00 - 16:30 (America/Denver) | Korean Center, Inc, 1362 Post Street, San Francisco
💡 Korean Futures Lab — Summer 2026
Saturday, June 20, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Korean Center, Inc., 1362 Post Street, San Francisco, CA 94109
Event Details: https://koreancentersf.org/korean-futures-lab-summer-2026/
🎬 Storyboard a Short Film
🎵 Create Music with AI
🎭 Make a Microdrama
💻 Try Vibe Coding
💬 Real Talk with Creators
Korean Futures Lab, formerly known as Teen Summit, is a twice-yearly creative development program presented by Korean Center, Inc. (KCI) with support from the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in San Francisco and the Overseas Koreans Agency. It brings together teens from across the Bay Area to explore Korean arts, storytelling, AI, media, and technology through hands-on workshops and honest conversations with working creators.
No prior experience needed. Just bring your curiosity and creativity.
